A sweeping fan-led effort is underway to rename Birmingham Airport in honor of Ozzy Osbourne. The idea, conceived by Dan Hudson, gained global traction after he observed that many U.S. airports bear the names of historical or cultural figures. Hudson argues that Birmingham should do the same with its most famous homegrown rock star.
The petition, listed under Rename Birmingham Airport as Ozzy Osbourne International, currently has over 70,000 signatures (and counting). The campaign cites examples such as John Lennon Airport in Liverpool and George Best Belfast City Airport as precedents within the UK. Hudson also points to U.S. airports like JFK, LaGuardia, and Louis Armstrong’s New Orleans airport to show naming isn’t limited to political figures.
Hudson has spoken before local officials, including Solihull councillors, emphasizing the cultural and business case: music tourism is booming in the UK, with reports pegging its value at billions. He believes naming the airport after Osbourne would not only celebrate his legacy but also highlight Birmingham’s importance in heavy metal history.
Responding to the proposal, Birmingham Airport issued a statement:
“We are currently progressing an exciting homage to Ozzy Osbourne … We know he was an inspiration … and we are committed to honoring his legacy within our terminal space.”
Airport and city planners have not committed to a full rename, but the statement acknowledges the public sentiment and expresses intent to provide a “greater sense of place” tied to Ozzy’s impact.
Historically, the airport has flirted with name changes before. In 2012, proposals surfaced to rename it after Ozzy, but nothing materialized. Now, in the wake of Osbourne’s death and following Birmingham’s recent recognition of Black Sabbath—they were awarded the Freedom of Birmingham earlier in 2025—the conversation feels more grounded and urgent.
Supporters argue the name change is overdue: some say Birmingham has been “embarrassed” of its musical heritage, failing to fully embrace the band that gave the city global stature. Others counter that any change should be cautious and respectful, not hasty or superficial.
Whether the campaign succeeds or not, it has already catalyzed renewed appreciation for Ozzy’s roots—and asked Birmingham to consider that some legacies should live not just in memory, but in the map itself.
